Numbers 7:86

The twelve gold dishes filled with incense weighed ten shekels each, according to the sanctuary shekel. The total weight of the gold dishes was a hundred and twenty shekels.

Study Bible

The twelve gold bowls
The number twelve in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or the people of God, as seen in the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles. The use of gold, a precious and incorruptible metal, signifies the purity and value of the offerings made to God. Gold was commonly used in the tabernacle and later in the temple, representing divine presence and holiness. The bowls, used for holding incense, were integral in worship, symbolizing the prayers of the people rising to God (Revelation 5:8).

full of incense
Incense in the Bible is frequently associated with prayer and worship. The Hebrew word for incense, "qetoreth," implies a fragrant smoke that ascends to heaven, symbolizing the prayers of the faithful reaching God. In the tabernacle, incense was burned on the altar of incense, which stood before the veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, signifying the intercession of the priests on behalf of the people. The fullness of the bowls indicates the abundance and completeness of the prayers and worship offered to God.

weighed ten shekels apiece
The shekel was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel. The specific weight of ten shekels for each bowl underscores the precision and orderliness of the offerings. The number ten often represents completeness or divine order in the Bible, as seen in the Ten Commandments. This precise measurement reflects the careful adherence to God's instructions, emphasizing the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

according to the sanctuary shekel
The sanctuary shekel was a specific standard used in the tabernacle and later in the temple, ensuring uniformity and fairness in religious transactions. This standardization highlights the importance of consistency and integrity in worship practices. The sanctuary shekel was likely heavier than the common shekel, indicating the elevated value and sacredness of offerings made to God. This phrase reminds believers of the need for sincerity and purity in their offerings and worship, aligning with God's holy standards.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the offerings from the leaders of the tribes.

2. Israelite Leaders
The heads of the twelve tribes who brought offerings for the dedication of the altar.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where the offerings were brought.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
A unit of weight used in the tabernacle, indicating the standard for offerings.

5. Dedication of the Altar
The event where the leaders of the tribes brought offerings to consecrate the altar.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Offerings
The offerings brought by the leaders were not just material gifts but represented their dedication and commitment to God. This teaches us the importance of giving our best to God in worship and service.

Unity in Worship
Each tribe contributed equally, symbolizing unity among the people of God. In our communities, we should strive for unity in purpose and action, especially in worship and service.

Symbolism of Incense
Incense in the tabernacle symbolizes prayer and worship. Our prayers should be a pleasing aroma to God, offered with sincerity and reverence.

The Weight of Worship
The specific mention of the weight of the gold dishes underscores the value and seriousness of worship. We should approach worship with a sense of awe and respect, recognizing its significance in our relationship with God.

Consistency in Standards
The use of the sanctuary shekel as a standard highlights the importance of consistency and integrity in our offerings to God. We should ensure that our spiritual practices align with biblical standards.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the equal contribution of the tribes teach us about unity and equality in the body of Christ?

2. How can the symbolism of incense as prayer influence our personal prayer life and communal worship?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our offerings to God, whether time, talent, or treasure, are given with the right heart and intention?

4. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of the sanctuary shekel enhance our appreciation of biblical worship practices?

5. What parallels can we draw between the dedication of the altar in Numbers 7 and the dedication of our lives to God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:34-38
This passage describes the composition and use of incense in the tabernacle, connecting to the incense offerings in Numbers 7:86.

Leviticus 24:5-9
Discusses the use of shekels in the sanctuary, providing context for the weight and value of the offerings.

Hebrews 9:1-5
Describes the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings, offering a New Testament perspective on the tabernacle's significance.

Revelation 5:8
Relates to the incense as a symbol of the prayers of the saints, connecting the physical offerings to spiritual worship.